When is Holi 2026 in Mumbai? March 2 or March 3 explained

According to Hindu calendar calculations published by DrikPanchang Holi 2026 will be observed over two days mdash Holika Dahan on March 2 and Rangwali Holi on March 3 in Mumbai The festival falls on the full moon day Purnima of the Hindu month of Phalguna and is among the most widely celebrated festivals in IndiaHoli marks the arrival of spring and symbolises the triumph of good over evil with deep roots in Hindu mythology and seasonal transitionHolika Dahan ndash March 2 2026Holika Dahan also known as Chhoti Holi will be observed on the evening of March 2 after sunset in Mumbai The ritual involves lighting a sacred bonfire to commemorate the legend of Prahlad and HolikaAccording to Hindu scriptures demon king Hiranyakashipu attempted to kill his devotee son Prahlad with the help of his sister Holika who had a boon that made her immune to fire However Holika was consumed by the flames while Prahlad emerged unharmed symbolising the victory of faith and righteousnessRitual timings for Holika Dahan are determined carefully The bonfire is traditionally lit during Pradosh Kaal and when Bhadra is not prevailing as performing the ritual during Bhadra is considered inauspicious Panchangbased calculations are used to identify the most appropriate muhuratCommunities gather in open grounds and residential societies to perform the ritual Devotees circle the bonfire offer prayers coconuts and grains and seek blessings for prosperity and protection from negative forcesHolika Dahan Muhurta 0644 PM to 0911 PM duration 02 Hours 26 MinsHolika Dahan during Pradosh with BhadraPurnima Tithi Begins 0555 PM on Mar 02 2026Purnima Tithi Ends 0507 PM on Mar 03 2026Rangwali Holi ndash March 3 2026The main festival of colours known as Rangwali Holi or Dhulandi will be celebrated on March 3 in Mumbai Streets and neighbourhoods come alive with vibrant hues as people smear each other with gulal and splash coloured waterCelebrations typically begin in the morning with friends and families visiting each otherrsquos homes and exchanging festive delicacies such as gujiya malpua and thandai Music dance and community gatherings form an integral part of the festivitiesHoli also carries a strong social message of inclusivity encouraging people to rise above barriers of caste class and age The popular phrase ldquoBura na mano Holi hairdquo reflects the playful and forgiving spirit associated with the festivalBhadra Punchha 0125 AM to 0235 AM Mar 03Bhadra Mukha 0235 AM to 0430 AM Mar 03Regional celebrations across IndiaHoli is celebrated in diverse ways across the country reflecting Indiarsquos rich cultural tapestryIn Mathura and Vrindavan associated with Lord Krishna festivities extend over several days and include traditions such as Lathmar Holi and Phoolon ki Holi In Barsana women playfully strike men with sticks as part of the famous Lathmar Holi ritualIn Maharashtra the festival is marked by community celebrations and traditional sweets like puran poli In West Bengal Holi coincides with Basanta Utsav popularised by Rabindranath Tagore at Shantiniketan Meanwhile in Punjab the Sikh community celebrates Hola Mohalla with displays of martial arts and valourEach region adds its own cultural flavour making Holi a truly panIndian festivalCultural and seasonal significanceBeyond its mythological importance Holi also signifies the end of winter and the beginning of the harvest season It represents renewal fresh beginnings and the strengthening of social bondsTraditionally natural colours derived from flowers and herbs were used highlighting the festivalrsquos close connection with naturePreparations underwayWith Holi 2026 falling on March 2 and 3 in 2026 markets are expected to witness brisk sales of colours pichkaris sweets and festive items in the days leading up to the festival Authorities across cities are also likely to issue advisories promoting safe and ecofriendly celebrationsAs per DrikPanchang Holi 2026 will once again bring communities together in a vibrant celebration of colour faith and unity mdash reflecting a cultural tradition deeply woven into the fabric of India